The Best and Worst of "Top of the Range" Neutral Shoes

The segment of "top of the range" running shoes is becoming more and more complicated, both for the brands, which have more and more competitors for their models, and for those of us who are going to choose the shoes when we need them because it is difficult for us to discard them.

So, rather than talking about good or bad shoes, we are reaching a point where the fierce struggle is between good or very good.

Here are the strengths and weaknesses of the most representative model of each of the main brands in the market within the "Top of the Range" Neutral range (ordered alphabetically by the name of the brand, so that there is no suspicion as to whether this or that model is better or worse than the other).

Adidas Adistar Boost

• Strengths:
  Cushioning: feel, durability, it is always in tune, ...
  Wide range of runner's weight range (can be used by relatively light runners).
  Upper and fit.

• Weaknesses:
  Somewhat flimsy counter.
  Not everyone likes the upper and fit.

Asics Nimbus 15

• Strengths:Very strong chassis.
  Lots of cushioning and very balanced.
  Comfort on the road (it is a real sedan).

• Weaknesses:Not veryresponsive (some may find it a bit too sluggish).
  Relatively high weight.
  Breathability.

Brooks Glycerin 11

• Strengths:Very balanced overall (not the best at anything but overall one of the best).
  Adaptive cushioning (firmer the faster you go with it).
  Very good chassis and fit.

• Weak points:Weight of the shoe.
  Response.

Joma Hispalis XIV

• Strong points:Strong chassis.
  Very stable.
  Price.

• Weak points:The feel of the cushioning is perhaps too firm.
  Upper less advanced and elaborate than its competitors.
  Somewhat heavy.

Kwiss Blade-Max Express

• Strengths:Wide runner weight range (can be used by relatively light runners).
  High stability.
  Strong chassis.

• Weaknesses:Outsole(lower durability than others and possible stone picking).
  Midsole height.

Mizuno Enigma 3

• Strengths:Very balanced cushioningfeel(nice, responsive and not too much travel).
  Very high stability.
  Very good chassis and fit.

• Weak points:Heightsdrop 12 mmdrop and somewhat high in general).
  If you are not a heavy runner or a runner with a strong stride, it can be a bit stiff at the front.

New Balance 1080v4

• Strengths:Great response while maintaining great cushioning.
  Very lightweight.
  Wide runner weight range (can be used by relatively light runners).

• Weaknesses:Holds less weight than some of its competitors.
  Adjustment of the first eyelet.

Nike Vomero 8

• Strong points:Lots of cushioning and with plenty of travel (for those who like this type of cushioning).
  Very comfortable while running.
  Grippy outsole.

• Weak points:Although stability has been improved, it does not reach the levels of its competitors.
  Cushioning with a lot of travel (not everyone does well).
  Durability of the sole, especially if taken off road.

Saucony Triumph 11

• Strengths:Drop of 8 millimeters, intermediate point so that it allows a little less than usual but without requiring too much adaptation.
  It can be used by not so heavy runners.
  Very high quality upper, very breathable.

• Weaknesses:The upper is very good but some users have problems with tearing.
  It supports less weight than some of its rivals.

Zoot Ultra Kalani 3.0

• Strengths:Fit of upper (if it fits well, it's a glove).
  Lightweight.
  Balance between cushioning and responsiveness.

• Weak points:Gripoff-road.
  Limited lacing possibilities due to the eyelet design.
  Chassis less forceful than other rivals.